Paddy the Baddy Speaks Out After Losing Two Friends

Warning: This report contains references to suicide

UFC fighter Paddy Pimblett has used a post-fight interview to deliver a heartfelt message about mental health following the deaths of several friends.

The 31-year-old from Huyton, Liverpool, lost to Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 in Las Vegas, but turned the spotlight onto an issue he says affects too many men. Pimblett urged men not to bottle up their feelings and to seek support, highlighting the tragic loss of two friends to suicide in recent months.

“Two lads I know have taken their own lives since my last fight,” he said. “Men, speak up. Don’t bottle your feelings up. Talk to someone. Don’t kill yourself.”

Pimblett also paid tribute to the late Liverpool player Diego Jota and his brother Andrew, who died in a car crash last year, as well as to a friend’s mother who recently passed away. He dedicated the fight to their memory, saying it was important to honour those he had lost.

The fighter, who was taken to hospital after the bout, has previously spoken publicly about the pain caused by male suicide and the importance of supporting those struggling with mental health issues.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, support is available through local mental health services and helplines.